A Guide To Engagement Rings For Men
Engagement rings are traditionally thought to be worn only by women, but engagement rings for men have become increasingly popular. The agreement to marry is a binding promise for both the man and the woman and it is now not only considered acceptable, but suitable for both parties to wear an engagement ring to signify this pledge of a life time commitment. While womens engagement rings are traditionally fashioned with a high pronged setting, displaying a single solitaire diamond, engagement rings fashioned for men are not as fancy or elaborate, but are more suited for the masculine taste. Some men may think the idea of his wearing an engagement ring is too feminine, but browsing the internet quickly reveals the many very masculine styles available.
Any man will be proud display a simple or intricately designed band and a wide variety of these styles are easily found. Even though many jewelry stores have not caught on to the popularity of men wearing engagement rings, browsing on-line reveals a vast array of these rings for men, from simple bands, multi-colored bands and rings with diamonds or other gemstones in a channel setting. This setting is a recessed channel cut into the ring, where the gems, usually 6 or 7, are mounted level with the rings surface, creating an unusual design that is very suitable and practical for men, no matter what activity he may be performing. Of course, the band style is always appropriate, as it may resemble a wedding band, thus serving the same purpose of declaring his unavailable status. These bands can be of simple design, such as a gold band, or they can incorporate two or three different colored metals for a striking effect. Many of these bands can be found with intricate engravings, perhaps even matching the brides wedding ring design.
If a diamond is preferred for the mans ring,, a cushion cut diamond ring is an excellent choice. This cut is an antique design and features a deep cut with rounded corners and large facets for excellent sparkle. The cushion cut is sometimes referred to as the pillow cut and lends itself to mens engagement ring designs very well. The shape of the cushion cut is rectangular, or almost square. It usually requires a 4 prong setting, but in the mens engagement ring, the setting is recessed somewhat, creating a pronged setting that is not easily snagged. If the budget does not permit a diamond cushion cut, many gemstones, such as topaz, sapphire, rubies and emeralds can be used for the cushion cut stone, embraced with diamonds on each side.
The cost of mens engagement rings are equivalent to the ones available for women. These rings are worn on the ring finger of the left hand during the engagement period and then moved to the right hand ring finger at the time of the ceremony, to be replaced by the wedding band. But they can also be used for the actual wedding ring, if the style is appropriate.